Red Flag #1: Overwhelmed by Social Media

How many social media platforms do you juggle to promote your writing? I noticed inspiring figures like Tim Denning on LinkedIn and Jenn Leach on Pinterest, leading me to think I could conquer the social media sphere just like them.

However, I was merely a passive observer, watching from the sidelines while others thrived. This approach had to change. My recommendation? Choose one platform and commit to it.

I opted for Twitter. The transition from my blog to this platform felt seamless, providing insights into how successful writers market themselves. I discovered that creating Twitter threads effectively showcases my work. After publishing an article, I craft a thread where the first tweet serves as a hook, followed by three tweets summarizing the article, and concluding with a link to my original piece on Medium.

This strategy has proven effective for me, and I encourage you to give it a try. Additionally, we should be sharing varied, meaningful content to cultivate genuine connections with our audience—nobody enjoys being bombarded with links alone.

Red Flag #2: Cluttered and Distracting Notes

Am I the only one with a chaotic notes page filled with every fleeting thought? Whenever inspiration strikes—be it a potential article title, marketing idea, or publication opportunity—I feel compelled to jot it down.

While I worry that these thoughts might vanish if I don't document them, the reality is that my notes page has become a chaotic jumble. It’s a messy collection of ideas that can lead to what I call "paralysis by analysis."

Previously, I'd spend entire days contemplating additions to my "To Do" list without actually accomplishing anything. This created a fictitious sense of productivity, where I enjoyed brainstorming rather than executing.

Despite the value of a notes page, it’s essential to keep it organized.

Red Flag #3: The Allure of Income

Let’s be honest; I enjoy earning money from my writing. It’s exhilarating and serves as a motivator. However, it can also become the bane of every online writer's existence.

I often find myself checking the Medium Partner Program, fully aware it only updates once a day. This obsession with numbers can detract from my focus on writing. While the thrill of seeing those figures can be motivating, it also fosters a greedy mindset.

It's crucial to stop viewing earnings as a scoreboard. This shift in perspective can be challenging, as my brain tends to treat income as a game score rather than actual money. I should probably start paying more attention to what actually lands in my account.

The solution? Refrain from equating these metrics with success. It’s a slippery slope that can sneak up on you.

Final Thoughts

Business is not a game; treating it as such can lead to significant losses—not just financially, but also in terms of mental well-being. It's vital to recognize the potential pitfalls that could undermine our dedication.

Writing online is an emotional roller coaster, and we need to secure ourselves with a metaphorical seatbelt to avoid falling off during the highs and lows. Maintaining momentum and persistence is essential.

Key Takeaway

The primary focus for a successful blog is, without question, the writing! Stay committed to the core of your craft—after all, writing is the product. Concentrate on it, market it wisely, and profit from your passion.

— Joseph Seifert

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